Pakistan-origin cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan lost his life on the field amid extreme heat waves in South Australia. The tragic incident unfolded during a domestic match between Old Concordians and Prince Alfred Old Collegians at Concordia College Oval in Adelaide on Saturday, March 15. Khan, who was playing for Old Concordians, collapsed on the pitch at around 4 PM ACDT. The medical team immediately rushed to the ground and even an ambulance was arranged. Despite the efforts, Khan could not survive. As reported by the local media, Khan was observing fast for Ramadan. He, however, had been consuming water all day to avoid dehydration as Muslims are allowed to do so when not feeling well. Following his demise, the Old Concordians Cricket Club issued a formal statement, sharing the heartbreaking news. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he could not be saved. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends, and teammates,” it read. Khan was batting for Old Concordians when the temperature reportedly reached 41.7 degrees Celsius. Amid the scorching heat, he had fielded for 40 overs in the first innings and scored an unbeaten 16 with the bat. As per the bylaws of the Adelaide Turf Cricket Association, matches must be called off if the temperature exceeds 42 degrees Celsius. The game, however, can be continued in conditions up to 40 degrees Celsius under modified playing conditions. The rules are likely to be reviewed after the recent tragedy. Khan, who was in his 40s, relocated to Australia in 2013. He left Pakistan with the dream of pursuing a career in the global tech industry. His friend and club teammate Hasan Anjum expressed his grief, saying, “It’s a huge loss, he was destined for very big things in his life.” Another field Nasam Hasan, while speaking about the event, called Khan a ‘gem of a person’. A severe heatwave blanketed Australia’s southeast coast last weekend, with millions dealing with extreme temperatures. Several prominent cities in the region, including Sydney and Victoria, were affected by the extreme conditions.